Fetal warfarin syndrome

Warfarin

Fetal warfarin syndrome (FWS) is a rare condition that occurs in a developing fetus when the mother takes the anticoagulant medication warfarin during pregnancy. This syndrome is characterized by a range of congenital abnormalities, primarily affecting the skeletal system, central nervous system, and facial features.

Causes

Fetal warfarin syndrome is caused by the teratogenic effects of warfarin, a vitamin K antagonist, which interferes with the normal development of the fetus. Warfarin crosses the placenta and can disrupt the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, leading to hemorrhages and subsequent developmental anomalies.

Symptoms

The symptoms of fetal warfarin syndrome can vary but often include:

• Nasal hypoplasia (underdeveloped nasal bridge)
• Stippled epiphyses (small, round calcifications in the cartilage of the long bones)
• Limb hypoplasia (underdeveloped limbs)
• Central nervous system abnormalities, such as microcephaly and intellectual disabilities
• Eye abnormalities, including optic atrophy and cataracts
• Congenital heart defects

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of fetal warfarin syndrome is typically based on a combination of maternal history of warfarin use during pregnancy and the presence of characteristic physical findings in the newborn. Prenatal ultrasound may detect some of the skeletal abnormalities, but a definitive diagnosis is often made postnatally.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for fetal warfarin syndrome. Management focuses on addressing the individual symptoms and may include:

• Surgical correction of skeletal deformities
• Special education and developmental support for intellectual disabilities
• Regular monitoring and treatment of heart defects

Prevention

The primary method of preventing fetal warfarin syndrome is to avoid the use of warfarin during pregnancy. Alternative anticoagulants, such as heparin, which do not cross the placenta, are often recommended for pregnant women who require anticoagulation therapy.

Related Pages

• Warfarin
• Teratogen
• Congenital disorder
• Vitamin K
• Heparin